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Mallet (Baseball) Finger

This fracture results from a trauma to tip of the finger forcing it into flexion (rapidly bending it down toward the palm) and avulsing the extensor tendon. This injury commonly occurs in baseball and basketball when attempting to catch a ball. Signs and symptoms include pain, swelling, and an inability to straighten out the last digit of the involved finger.

Treatment includes splinting of the finger in the straight position for 6-8 weeks. In some cases, surgical pinning of the finger in a straight position along with splinting is necessary.

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